Andorra is a little jewel in Southwestern Europe, and the landlocked Micro State is surrounded by France and Spain. The people of this tiny principality treasure their freedom, and although the Andorrans use the euro currency they are not part of the EU. There are plenty of things to see and do in this wonderful country, at an altitude of at over 1000 metres in the Pyrenees mountains. There are daily return bus trips out of Barcelona, and the bus ride across the border to the capital Andorra la Vella takes only three hours. Many tourists take the opportunity to take the bus for a day trip to explore Andorra and perhaps indulge in a bit of a shopping spree, and I was glad to join the crowds who visit the country for the first time. It is one of those fascinating places where there is no standing army, and the locals rely on France and Spain to defend their sovereignty. A French and a Spanish representative provide the co-rulers of the principality. Even when I arrived at customs the officer made a point of greeting me in Spanish and French.
The journal left off at the conclusion of a magical week in Spain, and her charms are as strong as ever for visitors. I was up early to get the metro to Barcelona Sants, and Eurolines organise day trips to Andorra for a return price of 50 euro. It’s a little expensive for bus fares when travelling in Europe, but considering the price provides an opportunity to visit another country it’s actually a bargain. I’ve previously taken a day trip to San Marino, and it’s a wonderful experience to wander around and take photographs in the European Micro States. The bus journey was efficient and uneventful, despite a rude lady reclining her seat prior to the trip even commencing, and lounging that way for three hours without even a glance in my direction. Meanwhile I remained cramped and a little cranky about her inconsiderate behaviour in my assigned seat on a full bus. We passed through the border, and one man was taken with his bags off the bus, and did not return. But everything was fine for the rest of the passengers after we displayed our documents, and we continued to climb through the mountains until we reached the capital Andorra la Vella. The bus dropped us off at the terminal, and the friendly staff with perfect English were ready with directions to the centre and free maps for the new arrivals.
Keep in mind the principality is at altitude in the Pyrenees, so it’s essential to have warm clothes for a visit during winter. Andorra is famous for it’s ski runs, and people flock to the country to enjoy the pristine snow on an annual basis. In fact the principality receives over 10 million visitors per year, and it’s clear tourism is a major income generator for the local people. It’s just a few minutes walk to find the centre of the Old Town after heading out from the bus station, and the city is elegant and stylish in a uniquely European style. I enjoyed strolling around with my camera at the ready, capturing plenty of images of the charming architecture and sense of style thats’s always prevalent in the cities of Europe. They also have Wi Fi zones in the heart to the city, and a connection is as easy as pie.
There are two beautiful churches and the parliament within Andorra la Vella that are easy to navigate to, the city is compact and the main boulevard is very close to the bus terminal. Visitors will not need a map to make the most of a visit to this tiny principality. The local people are charming, open, and friendly; and the delightful architecture of the buildings within the centre of the city provide endless photographic opportunities for visitors to the city. I enjoyed an excellent lunch while in Andorra, and the country is renowned for it’s culinary delights. There is a sense of style and fashion amongst the locals and visitors alike, and it’s great to be up in the Pyrenees mixing it up with the bold and the beautiful. The bus headed back to Barcelona in the late afternoon, and I’ll retain fond memories of a flying visit to another one of the cool Micro States in Europe.
However, I was not finished for the day as I had a limited time in Barcelona, and was determined to make the most of it. Upon arrival I was out of the bus terminal like a shot, and although it was dark I jumped on a metro to Park Guell before closing time at 9:00pm. It’s more than a kilometre from the metro to the amazing park designed by Antonin Gaudi, and it was great to be back for a further visit to this unique attraction after a ten year absence. However, the park is not designed for night viewing and the lighting is inadequate to get full enjoyment from this incredible place. I have no regrets about seeing the park again after dark, but if you are in Barcelona I strongly recommend a day visit to Park Guell as part of your itinerary. I arrived back at the hostel at 10:00pm grateful and happy to have visited Andorra for the day, basically all of you should be here now!
“Wherever you go, go with all your heart.” Confucius
As I continue my travels, until next time it’s signing off for now
Tom
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